The U.K.-based Rothschild & Co Group, a leading independent financial advisory group, today announced that the veteran mergers-and-acquisitions banker James M. Neissa will join the group next month as head of Rothschild & Co North America.
The hiring is part of Rothschild's plans to expand its deal advisory business in the U.S. M&A market, where volumes surged to a record last year and continue to be relatively robust. The company has already made notable achievements over the last several years, including a high profile transaction where it advised Intel Corp. on its $16.7 billion Acquisition of rival chip maker Altera Corp.
The 55-year-old will lead the continued development of the North American business primarily focusing on Rothschild Global Advisory.
Prior to joining Rothschild, Mr. Neissa spent more than 20 years as an M&A professional at UBS Investment Bank (UBS) and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette (DLJ). His last position was co-head of investment banking and a member of the Global Executive Committee. During his tenure at UBS, he also co-headed the Global M&A, based in London and New York, where he helped build a leading M&A franchise in the U.S.
The group also hired Lee LeBrun, the former co-head of mergers and acquisitions at UBS Americas. In his new role, Lee will be tasked with mergers and acquisitions in North America.
Mr. LeBrun was also previously at UBS, where he served as Co-Head of M&A - Americas. Before joining UBS, he was a senior M&A banker in New York and London at Lufkin & Jenrette.
Both Jimmy Neissa and Lee LeBrun will assume their positions in September.
Room to Grow in North America
Robert Leitão, Head of Rothschild Global Advisory, commented on the appointments: "We see a lot of opportunities to grow Rothschild & Co's North American presence, building on our record performance in the most recent fiscal year. Jimmy Neissa is one of the finest bankers in the industry and his experience, knowledge and vision will serve our clients well. He brings broad industry expertise and a robust track record of developing successful investment banking businesses in the United States, Europe and Latin America. We are delighted that Jimmy is continuing his career with Rothschild & Co.”
Mr. Neissa said in an accompanying statement: "I am thrilled and humbled to join Rothschild & Co, which for more than 200 years has provided its clients with unparalleled capabilities and perspective.”
“The group's guiding principles mirror my personal business philosophy and I look forward to working with my new colleagues as we continue to deliver differentiated services in the North American market, while making a meaningful difference in the world of business and wealth. In doing so, we will build upon Rothschild & Co's position as a leading independent financial advisory firm in North America," he concluded.
